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While this choice might be cliché, Khan Academy is my favorite e-learning website. Many years ago I stumbled upon the Khan Academy website when I was trying to recall algebra rules. Salman Khan first developed his videos for a cousin who was struggling in math, and in 2009, with financial backing from Ann Doerr, Khan quit his full-time job to form the non-profit, Khan Academy. A few years later, both Bill Gates and Google became financial backers, moving Khan Academy into the big leagues. His videos have now reached millions around the globe. Khan Academy videos produce response strengthening where viewers are learning or reinforcing skills. This learning is guided in a step-by-step procedure; students can watch a video to hone a skill, or in some cases, re-watch a video to master content. Some of Khan’s critics are grounded in the Constructivism theory of education - they believe that children should problem-solve from elements of everyday life, instead of watching a video. Khan disagrees, stating that “the more teachers flip their classrooms, the more time students have for creative activities” (Thompson, 2011). I tend to agree with Khan, and I still turn to his videos. Salman Khan is now revamping the traditional brick-and-mortar school model with a lab school in Silicon Valley. What venture will Khan Academy try next?

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The Learning Crush blog offers ideas and reflections on technology and education. Enjoy!